Ten-year-old Joshua marks his recovery from a debilitating disease and major surgery by walking the 46 mile Peddars Way for charity, spurred on by support from the Red Arrows
In the wind and the rain of half term, Joshua a pupil Thomas Eaton Primary School at Wimblington, completed the walk, ably supported by his siblings, including seven-year-old Noah and 12-year-old Jacob.
This is a remarkable feat for both Joshua and Noah, but it is even more amazing for the fact that 20 months ago Joshua underwent major hip surgery.
Joshua, who is the third son of Nicki and Gerard Cowin of Wimblington, was diagnosed with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease when he was six, a degenerative condition of the hip bone that meant he was not able to walk, run or play like other children of his age.
The condition got gradually worse, meaning Joshua was in constant pain and eventually had to use a wheelchair to get about.
Joshua underwent major hip and pelvis surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, to correct the damage caused and help in the long healing process.
While he was lying in his hospital bed in a cast from his chest to his ankle, he decided he would walk the Peddars Way from Knettishall to Holme next the Sea to mark his recovery.
The plane mad youngster was also lucky enough to receive a personal message of support from the world famous
RAF Aerobatics team The Red Arrows, which really gave him a boost when he was at his worst.
Once Joshua was recovered, he decided to give something back and walk the Peddars Way in support of the Jon Egging Trust and has so far raised £250.
Jon Egging was a Red Arrows pilot who tragically died in an accident in August 2011. During his walk he again received the support and encouragement from the Red Arrows, spurring him on.
Joshua ended the walk in style, completing the last few miles, of his 46 mile walk to the beach at Holme next the Sea, in his Red Arrows suit.
He will never be free from the consequences of Perthes but he refuses to let it slow him down or from doing what he sets his sights on.
To sponsor Joshua viist: http:www.justgiving.comJust-Walkit
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here